Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems Land have signed a Teaming Agreement aimed at bolstering rocket artillery capabilities across the continent. This cooperation will specifically focus on producing advanced rocket artillery ammunition for the PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) and the EuroPULS launchers, addressing the growing demand for deep strike capabilities in Europe. The initiative is especially aligned with the requirements of the German armed forces, a critical partner in the European defense architecture. The EuroPULS Launcher, which is part of a joint venture between Elbit and KNDS Deutschland, is designed to meet both NATO and European military standards. By combining forces with Diehl Defence, Elbit Systems is set to create a comprehensive supply chain within Europe, ensuring that both local capabilities and operational readiness are enhanced for EuroPULS users. This Teaming Agreement not only facilitates the production of advanced rocket munitions within Europe but also enhances support and sustainment for the entire European network utilizing PULS and EuroPULS systems.
Helmut Rauch, Diehl Defence CEO, said: “This agreement paves the way for Diehl Defence and Elbit to bring their technological expertise along with their vast rocket artillery experience to Germany and other European countries and enable them to meet the ever-growing challenges of modern fire support”.
Yehuda (Udi) Vered, General Manager of Elbit Systems Land, commented: “We’re pleased to be working with Diehl Defence in the field of rocket artillery. I believe that this collaboration is both synergetic and timely, due to the increased demand for advanced rocket artillery capabilities considering the leading expertise of both companies. The EuroPULS Launcher, which is a joint initiative between Elbit and KNDS Deutschland, is aimed at meeting the European and NATO technical and operational requirements. This Teaming Agreement between Elbit and Diehl Defence complements this initiative and will enable to develop and produce rocket-munitions for the PULS and EuroPULS launchers in Europe, providing further local capability, support and sustainment to all the European PULS/EuroPULS members.”
The PULS, originally known as the Lynx MRL, is a multiple rocket launcher that boasts impressive versatility. Developed by Elbit Systems after the acquisition of Israel Military Industries in 2018, the PULS system can launch a variety of rockets and missiles tailored to different battlefield needs. Its configuration supports a range of munitions, including 122mm Grad rockets, 160mm LAR-160 or ACCULAR rockets, and 306mm EXTRA rockets. The system’s ability to carry loitering munitions, such as SkyStriker drones, adds an extra layer of tactical flexibility, allowing it to engage both stationary and moving targets over a range exceeding 100 km. In addition to its precision strike capabilities, the PULS system can conduct reconnaissance missions, with its drones capable of returning and landing for potential relaunch. This multi-mission capability provides unprecedented adaptability for modern battle scenarios.
The EuroPULS launcher is tailored to meet the unique demands of the European market. While primarily designed to integrate with a wide array of missile types, there have been limitations, such as the refusal of Lockheed Martin to integrate U.S.-made GMLRS and HIMARS missiles into the EuroPULS system. Nevertheless, EuroPULS represents a major step forward for European nations seeking homegrown, NATO-compliant rocket artillery solutions. The PULS system has already attracted considerable interest across Europe. In early 2023, Denmark and the Netherlands announced plans to acquire PULS launchers for their respective armies. Denmark is negotiating the acquisition of eight systems, while the Netherlands signed a $305 million contract for 20 systems, with deliveries set to begin within the year. Spain also placed an order for a locally manufactured version of the PULS system as part of its SILAM program in October 2023. With more than 40 years of experience in production of MLRS rockets and development of guided rocket systems and the required submunitions, Diehl Defence has always been a reliable partner for the Bundeswehr and NATO countries. Diehl Defence with its existing production capacities and its broad competences in system and subsystem development is now ready to enter the next era of long-range precision rocket artillery effectors once again with a strong partner like Elbit.
